Power Amp Question
Question: how to match a power amp to my system using an integrated amp as a preamp.
System:
Triad Gold LCR In-Room Speakers 4-OHM 100-400 watt
Audio Tecnica AT-OC9XL Dual MC cartridge
NAD C356 integrated amp
Rega Aria MK3 (recently added)
Thank You
G
Why do you believe you need more power? (maybe you do, its just that there is no evidence or explanation here......) You realize the relationship between power and volume is roughly logarithmic? so doubling it makes a very small difference..... BTW if you do wish to upgrade i tend to agree that a better ovrall integrated would be a better choice - the signal is a chain and only as good as the weakest link after all. |
#1 Move all the stuff from in front of your speakers. #2 Use very heavy gauge speaker wire, at least 10 to 12 gauge. #3 The more power the better, 200 watts/channel minimum. I would also agree that you may want to go with separates eventually, but the NAD should work fine for now. I do not agree with the comment that a preamp is as important as the power amp, speakers #1, power amp #2. Good luck. |
I must agree with @fiesta75 that moving the stuff from in between your speakers would likely result in a real improvement. But given the size of your room the biggest gain would be in the preamp. A good preamp is the heart and soul of a system like yours… as well as the phono stage. I would invest in that way before a new amp.
I have been pursuing high end sound for fifty years. I started with very modest components. The first big step up was from owning a great preamp, the second a great phonostage, and finally and amp. It would be easy to overload the sound in that small room and make you think you need more power and bass… you will probably want bass traps in the corners to help stop overloading the space. That lets the contrast of nothing to strong sound increase. Also, after removing the stuff between the speakers a thick wall hanging to absorb sound and one on the wall opposite the speakers should help. Corner traps would prolly help (small). |
@ghdprentice @rodman99999 @fiesta75 I greatly appreciate all the valuable insights and suggestions. I will think about adding a 200 watt power amp. The phono preamp is a few days into the system. There is a lot to think about. 🎵 George
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